Emdash at 15: Growth, Change, and Staying the Same

Emdash was launched in 2009 as a media training and style consultancy specifically for union leaders. However, we evolved into a strategy-first creative agency focused on crafting clear messaging and solid strategies with a strong commitment to social justice and change.

I joined the team in 2013 and had the privilege of becoming Emdash’s first CEO in 2019. Over these years, I’ve witnessed our team grow, contract, and then grow again. We’ve navigated the complexities of a global pandemic, adapted to working remotely, and transitioned from a fully in-person team to a fully remote one, spanning from coast to coast. We've also experienced major leadership changes, closed down our physical office, and rebranded to reflect our evolving mission.

But through all this change, one thing has remained constant: a team of dedicated, passionate individuals who care deeply about the work we do. At Emdash, we often say that when you work with us, we take on your issue as our own—and we mean it. Our commitment to the causes we champion, from social justice and equity to access to quality healthcare and education, is what has kept our team going.

Our work spans a wide range of initiatives, all aimed at amplifying the voices of those who fight for positive change. Whether it’s crafting campaigns that advocate for climate action, supporting Indigenous rights, or pushing for policy reforms, we are proud of the impact our work has had over the years. We’re lucky to put our skills to work in service of creating a better world.

In some ways, the landscape looks very different than it did 15 years ago. With a growing divide between left and right and the pervasive spread of misinformation, the role of clear, honest communication has never been more crucial. Every social media feed has become a battlefield filled with misogyny, hate, and misinformation. This only underscores the importance of the work we do at Emdash.

What will remain constant is our commitment to the folks we work with. We will strive to continue to be the first call during a crisis and a trusted partner for those looking to reach new audiences. Looking ahead, our small-but-mighty team will continue to take on a few new engagements every year where we can bring our empathy-driven approach to make a real difference.

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It is an honour to be trusted with this work, and as we look ahead, we remain committed to helping good people be heard. Here’s to another 15 years of making a difference together.